Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has confirmed he will talk to other clubs in January.

The Nigerian midfielder has not played for Antonio Conte despite returning to the side under Guus Hiddink at the end of last season.

Mikel's Chelsea deal is due to expire next summer, giving him the opportunity to speak to other clubs and reach a pre-contract agreement.

"When you have a year left, in January you are allowed to talk to other clubs and sign a pre-contract or have an agreement so, yes, I will talk to other clubs because you never know what is going to happen," Mikel said.

Mikel in action during pre-season (Image: Action Images via Reuters)

"If it is going to be the Premier League there will be options. If it is China or some other places, we will see.

"One thing is for sure, I will make the best decision.

"I've been here for a long, long time. I've spent 11 years of my life in this football club, it is my home. This season is the last at the club if my contract ends. I am quite relaxed about it, the future looks good."

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Mikel has not ruled out a move to the MLS, where he would be reunited with former Chelsea colleague Frank Lampard.

"Who knows, I may go over there and play with him, or play against him," he said.